Conservation of endangered medicinal plant Oroxylum indicum Vent. by substitution of roots with small branches via comparative chemo-profiling

Abstract Oroxylum indicum Vent. is an endangered medicinal plant due to the overexploitation of roots in the herbal market. The study proposed the substitution of its roots with small branches on a phytochemical basis for plant sustainability and the exploration of the medicinal potential of alternative plant parts. The comparative phytochemical profiles of roots and small branches of O. indicum were examined through physicochemical, spectrophotometric, and HPTLC analysis. Analogous HPTLC profiles indicated phytochemical similarities in different extracts of roots and small branches, along with higher concentrations of total phenolics and flavonoids found in the aerial part than in the roots. Equality in the phytoconstituent pattern demonstrates the possibility of using small branches over the roots. The study advocates the substitution of roots for small branches of O. indicum, substituent may be used alternatively in place of roots in medicinal applications and to conserve such threatened medicinal plants for future sustainability. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT